The simplicity of a Walk.

The many benefits of walking are widely discussed. What I will attempt is to describe a simple correction in how you walk. The lengthy needs of detailing proper gait is more than I care to address for this post, maybe I'll tackle that another time. For this post I would like to introduce a change that is so simple and effective in it's proposed value, we would be silly not to incorporate it.

All you need to do is point your thumbs forward! That's it! A common mistake when walking is to walk with our heads down and our shoulders rounded forward. This has the effect of limiting oxygen flow to our brain and biasing lower brain functions over higher more cerebral functions. It also interrupts the kinetic chain of events integral for proper spinal support and efficient gait control. By not allowing the backs of our hands to face forward and instead consciously turning our thumbs forward, it will naturally rotate our humerous, pull our shoulders back, raise our head to level and in large measure correct the negatives just spoken of. How simple is that? Is it the answer to all your problems? No. But it is a simple measure of the right stuff to contribute to your overall approach to health and happiness.

Go ahead, give it try! I dare you.

Shoveling the white stuff!

As I was driving home for lunch I was noticing a number of people out shoveling again.  So I thought maybe I might offer a few thoughts on the dreaded process.


First of all dress for the conditions.  Proper footwear can help prevent falling on slippery driveways and not getting cold is important to proper muscular function.

Second, don't be afraid to warm up first.  Few of us have a problem understanding the need for warm-ups when performing athletically, but frown on the concept preceding work.  Even if you simply start on an area that is smaller and easier to begin with.  It's worth warming up.

Third, don't try to move too much at a time.  When snow falls deep you may have to be satisfied with taking a little longer and save yourself some pain and stiffness.

Fourth, keep the shovel in front of your body as much as possible.  Avoid twisting motions as you throw the snow as this movement tends to compromise your low back.  Direct the shovel with an acute angle toward the seams or cracks in the cement as this will limit the number of sudden stops!  Don't be afraid to use your back, just ensure it's in the correct position to be used.  In other words, bend at your hips and knees, not somewhere in your spine. 

One final thought.  If you can manage it, switch sides every now and again.  That is, shovel right handed and then left handed.  It will promote anatomical symmetry.  It may feel awkward at first, but it's worth your effort.  Not only will it save repeated strain on the same side, but it will also increase brain activity as you learn to work with your non-dominant side.

It's the right stuff!  Have fun!